It’s not long now before the biggest ever Yorkshire Balloon Fiesta opens its doors – and the event is already taking shape on Knavesmire.
Featuring mass balloon flights, the evening night glow show, and fantastic family fun from fairground rides to live performances, it runs from Friday 23 to Sunday 25 September.
Organisers have been on site over the weekend setting everything up for a soaraway weekend of family fun.
Sadly, it is to be the last Balloon Fiesta in York as it is looking for a new home next year.
So organiser John Lowery is determined to make it the biggest and best yet.
“We’re really excited, the weather’s looking good,” he told Ben Fry of YorkMix Radio.
“It’s good that the Knavesmire is really hard. We’ve got some of the Europe’s biggest fairground attractions on stage, we’ve got Gabrielle, Scouting For Girls and Craig Charles to come this weekend.
“We’ve got the Night Glow on Friday and Saturday night, we’ve got a major fireworks display which is a big finale on Sunday.”
There’s also Boyzlife headlining on Saturday night.
And so much to do for all ages during the day, including the Labyrinth Challenge – the world’s largest, continuous inflatable obstacle course.
Free children’s activities include a craft tent, Andy & The Odd Socks on stage, and a chance to meet the Gruffalo on Saturday and Sunday.
Plus, as John says, “we’ve got the YorkMix tour bus!”
YorkMix Radio are official partners of the Yorkshire Balloon Fiesta, and your favourite presenters will be hosting on stage.
John’s message is book your ticket to save – they cost £8 in advance, or £10 on the day. Under 5s go free – and £1 from every ticket sold will be split equally between three Yorkshire charities – St Leonard’s Hospice, York Rescue Boat and Yorkshire Air Ambulance.
Last year, more than 60,000 people went to what is the biggest hot air balloon and music festival in the north of England.